Thursday, April 5, 2018

Growing up in California and having lived in Boston for the past 5 years, I've spent the majority of my time on the coast. Apart from driving across the country for my move out here and attending a friend's wedding in Virginia, I haven't seen much of the rest of the country. So I was excited to spend a weekend in Austin, Texas and see what it has to offer!

Travel Guide: Weekend in Austin, Texas

Bat Viewing on Congress Bridge

Depending on when you visit, Congress Bridge is a fun spot to see bats fly out at night for their dinner! I'm a fan because I like animals and hate insects so this is a win-win for me. Don't go in December if you want to see this! March through November 7-8 PM is the prime viewing time.

Floats, Sausage and Live music at Banger's

How fun is this ice cream beer float? Banger's is one of those quintessential Austin spots - it has a huge selection of beer (106 on tap!), great food, and live music. Plus, the Rainey Street area has such a great atmosphere and is the perfect place to people watch and stroll around.

BBQ at La Barbecue

When in Rome! You can't go to Texas without getting some quality BBQ, and La Barbecue does not disappoint. It's a super casual spot where you can get in and get out quickly.

Torchy's Tacos

Torchy's Tacos is a local favorite, with a few different locations in Austin. Their illuminated wall does not lie, these tacos are damn good! They have breakfast tacos, a ton of regular tacos (with everything from catfish to shrimp to scrambled eggs), chips and dip, sides, and great small plates like street corn and hush puppies. Plus, they have bottled coke which is always delicious.

Shopping on South Congress

From Big Top Candy Shop to cute boutiques, shopping on South Congress is perfect for picking up Austin mementos (which according to spellcheck I've apparently been pronouncing wrong my whole life as momentos), and satisfying your sweet tooth all on the same street.

Nightlife on 6th Street

After the sun goes down, head to 6th Street for enjoyable bars, games, and live music! They even close down the street to cars so folks can roam around which makes it a really fun place to hang out.

If you're anything like me and enjoy bars with games, Austin has a ton of those! Blind Pig has an open second floor with basketball, skeeball, a giant connect four and tons of other games. Buffalo Billards is great if you like pool and pinball. Rustic Tap is another good one, with giant beer pong, corn hole, and other games.

Live bands at Stubbs

Who doesn't love live music? Stubbs is known as a great place to see a live show and get your country fix in!

Spa Resorts

Austin has a ton of cute hotels, and if you're willing to drive just a little outside of the city you can stay at the Lakeway Resort & Spa along the beautiful Lake Travis! If you missed it, see my review of the resort here.

All in all, Austin is definitely a fun place to visit. From the great food, to people watching and exciting nightlife, there's a lot to see and do for a great weekend trip!